Preston, IA
Population 1,057 · Iowa
About Preston, IA
Preston is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 1,057 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,950 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Preston features a median home value of $144,600, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Preston one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $789, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 487 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (336 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (129 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Preston shows an unemployment rate of 0.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 16.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Preston have an average one-way commute time of 25 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.1% of Preston residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 4.2% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Preston Ranks in Iowa
Cost of Living in Preston, IA
Compared to national averages, Preston has a median household income of $82,950 (10% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $144,600, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $789 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Preston's income is 22% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 9% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Preston, IA?
Preston offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,950, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $144,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $789/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.2%.
Preston has a population of 1,057 with a median age of 36.5 years. Compare Preston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Preston
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anita | 1,060 | $65,375 | $114,500 | Compare |
| Swisher | 1,064 | $99,118 | $249,800 | Compare |
| George | 1,049 | $59,167 | $112,500 | Compare |
| Winfield | 1,065 | $46,364 | $99,800 | Compare |
| Fredericksburg | 1,040 | $65,809 | $164,100 | Compare |
| Riverside | 1,040 | $81,094 | $191,100 | Compare |
| Graettinger | 1,038 | $73,250 | $87,000 | Compare |
| Larchwood | 1,076 | $69,327 | $189,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Preston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Preston
What is the population of Preston, IA?
The population of Preston, IA is 1,057 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Preston?
The median household income in Preston, IA is $82,950 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Preston?
The median home value in Preston, IA is $144,600, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Preston?
The median monthly rent in Preston, IA is $789, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Preston?
The unemployment rate in Preston, IA is 0.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Preston, IA a good place to live?
Preston offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,057 and a median age of 36.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Preston, IA?
23.1% of residents in Preston aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Preston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Preston, IA: median home value is $144,600 (41% below national), median rent is $789/month, and median household income is $82,950. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Preston?
The poverty rate in Preston, IA is 16.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Preston, IA?
Preston's population is 4.2% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.